Monash Batik: Preserving Heritage and Inspiring Innovation
Monash University, Indonesia staff and Senior Executive team with Monash Batik
BSD City, Tangerang – Since its establishment in 2021, Monash University, Indonesia has continued to deepen its engagement with local communities, most recently through the creation of the Monash Batik. More than just a garment, Monash Batik is a symbol of cultural inclusion, international collaboration, and Monash’s enduring respect for the heritage of its Indonesian home.
Designed in close collaboration with local artisans, the project honours indigenous craftsmanship while fostering cultural competence among Monash students, staff, and alumni. It is a tribute to the beauty of Indonesian tradition and the shared values that connect us globally.
Launched on 18 July 2025 at Monash University, Indonesia campus by Monash University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Sharon Pickering, and Monash University, Indonesia Pro Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Matthew Nicholson, the Monash Batik journey began in March 2024. What started as a conversation around the idea of developing Monash Batik soon evolved into a full-fledged initiative, with Monash Indonesia commissioning the design and production through a trusted local Batik vendor.
Professor Sharon Pickering gave an opening speech at the Monash Batik launch
The design and the making process brought together over 200 skilled artisans in Pekalongan, Central Java, to produce two exquisite forms: hand-drawn (tulis) and hand-stamped (cap) Batik.. In her welcome speech, Professor Sharon highlighted that "this beautifully designed fabric is more than something that we just wear, it is a very powerful symbol of Monash as a global but more importantly as a regional institution. It speaks to how important Indonesia is both to Monash history and to our future."
Professor Matthew Nicholson delivered his speech at the Monash Batik launch
Echoing this, Professor Matthew emphasised the spirit of collaboration embodied in the Batik, noting that "wearing Monash Batik should be a constant reminder that collaboration is not about uniformity. Although to the outside world Monash Batik might look like a uniform, in fact, the subtle differences in Monash Batik mean that a shared purpose. It’s about bringing together diverse skills and perspectives to create something greater than ourselves."
Supporting the initiative, Anddy Steven, as the Monash Batik Project Leader, expressed his hope that "Monash Batik can connect our staff, students, and over 10,000 alumni with the cultural heritage that surrounds us."
Anddy Steven Sumampouw (Senior Manager, Learning & Teaching Operations) delivered his speech as the Monash Batik Project Leader
The intricate design draws inspiration from the Monash University shield, its Southern Cross stars, the open book of knowledge, and the timeless motto Ancora Imparo - "I am still learning." It embodies Monash’s core values: honesty, fairness, discovery, purpose, and collaboration, brought to life through traditional Indonesian artistry in Monash’s signature colours: Monash Blue, black, grey, and white.
All members of the Monash University community are warmly invited to join the Monash Batik movement. By wearing Monash Batik, you are preserving cultural heritage, celebrating identity, and proudly carrying forward the story of tradition and innovation - thread by thread.
For more information, visit the Monash Batik page.